How to put a recess in the chimney breast?

[Housey]

Does anyone know how to go about putting a recess in a chimney breast, and is it safe?
The chimney seems to have 2 lintels!? An original and a later edition above an old gas fireplace and back boiler (the fire/boiler is going to be taken out).

I want to make a recess deep enough to fit a little wine rack in?

Any advice would be great....

thanks

lady DIYer on a steep learning curve

 

[Maxsys]

Pictures paint a thousand words, can you post some?

 

[Alastairreid]

The recess can be built in under any of the two lintels.

You should keep in mind the flue still needs to have a vent installed.